Oscar-nominated transgender actress Karla Sofía Gascón has recently come under scrutiny for a series of controversial social media posts that have resurfaced. These posts, which include racist, anti-Muslim, and homophobic content, were brought to light by Canadian journalist Sarah Hagi. The tweets date back to the period between 2019 and 2021, and many of them have since been deleted by Gascón.
Gascón, who made history in 2023 by becoming the first transgender actress to receive a Best Actress nomination at the Academy Awards, has issued a public apology acknowledging the hurt her words have caused. She achieved her nomination for her role in the Netflix film Emilia Pérez, a dramatic musical that tells the story of a Mexican drug lord coming out as trans.
Controversial Tweets and Public Backlash
In one of the offending tweets, Gascón commented on a violent incident in France, expressing her views about Islam in a manner that many deemed to be offensive and inflammatory. She attributed acts of violence to followers of Islam, questioning the compatibility of the religion with Western values.
Another tweet sarcastically criticized Islamic practices, mocking the treatment of women within the religion. Gascón’s comments were perceived as deeply offensive and Islamophobic by many, leading to widespread criticism.
Gascón also faced backlash for a tweet in which she harshly criticized singer Miley Cyrus and reality TV star Kaitlynn Carter, after photos of the two women kissing were published. Her remarks were seen as homophobic and were strongly condemned by LGBTQ+ activists and allies.
In addition to her controversial posts about Islam and the LGBTQ+ community, Gascón made offensive remarks about the aftermath of George Floyd’s death, suggesting that people were using the tragedy to push political agendas. Her comments about the 2021 Oscars also stirred controversy for their racial insensitivity.
Public Apology and Response
Following the backlash, Gascón issued an apology through the entertainment news outlet Variety. In her statement, she expressed regret for her past words, acknowledging the pain they have caused. “I want to acknowledge the conversation around my past social media posts that have caused hurt. As someone in a marginalized community, I know this suffering all too well and I am deeply sorry to those I have caused pain,” Gascón stated. She emphasized her lifelong commitment to fighting for a better world, expressing hope that her future actions will bring positivity and light.
Despite the controversy, Gascón’s work continues to be recognized. Emilia Pérez received 13 Academy Award nominations, becoming the most-nominated film of the year and setting a record for the most nominations for an international feature. In May 2024, Gascón made history by winning the Cannes Film Festival’s Best Actress award, marking the first time a trans woman received this honor.
Recognition and Moving Forward
The recognition of Gascón’s talents did not come without its detractors. After the Cannes award announcement, French far-right politician Marion Maréchal made transphobic comments about Gascón. In response, Gascón chose not to engage in public disputes, stating, “I’ve decided not to get into controversy with anyone.” She expressed her desire to let her work speak for itself, highlighting her dedication to her craft.
Gascón concluded her response by celebrating her achievements, stating, “For the moment there you have this PALM OF GOLD TO A WOMAN, AN ACTRESS who gives all her soul in every job.” In doing so, she affirmed her commitment to her career and her community, hoping to inspire change and understanding through her performances.
In light of these events, Gascón’s story serves as a reminder of the complexity of public figures navigating the landscapes of social media and public opinion. Her journey highlights the importance of accountability, growth, and the ongoing struggle for acceptance and equality within the entertainment industry.
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